Toyota Launches Highlander Production in Indiana - VIDEO
ENHANCED

PRINCETON, IN - October 9, 2009: Production of the Highlander sport utility
vehicle, Toyota's 12th North American-built model, began yesterday at the
company's plant in Princeton, Indiana. The $450 million investment is part
of the adjustments Toyota began last year in order to better utilize
manufacturing capacity.

Click PLAY to watch video

Production of the Tundra pickup, originally in Indiana, was consolidated
last fall in the Tundra plant in Texas. Since then Toyota Motor
Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI), which also builds the Sienna and Sequoia,
has been preparing for the Highlander.

"Highlander production gives us better use of our capacity and
demonstrates our continued commitment to the U.S. and the state of
Indiana," said Wil James, TMMI senior vice president.

TMMI reacted to several months of slow production by retaining all of
its 4,200 team members, who were further trained and improved manufacturing
processes.

"The result is long-term sustainability of this factory, which is
important to our customers, team members, suppliers and the local
community," James said.

TMMI now represents a $3.7 billion investment. The addition of
Highlander boosts production at other Toyota plants such as West Virginia,
where the 6-cylinder engine is made, and at nearly 250 of Toyota's North
American suppliers.

In Indiana alone, Highlander parts and components including items such
as steel, brake parts and interior component assemblies will be provided by
about 30 Tier 1 suppliers.

Since it was introduced in 2001, more than 1 million Highlanders have
been sold in the U.S. The Highlander is available in Base, Sport and
Limited grades in both two-wheel and full-time four-wheel-drive models.
Features include: hill assist, Smart Key, flexible second row seating and a
separate glass hatch.